Avil Retard
Generic Name
Pheniramine Maleate
Manufacturer
Sanofi
Country
France
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| avil retard 75 mg tablet | ৳ 2.02 | ৳ 20.20 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Avil Retard 75 mg Tablet is an antihistamine used to relieve symptoms of allergic conditions such as hay fever, allergic rhinitis, and skin allergies. The 'retard' formulation provides a sustained release of the active ingredient for a prolonged effect, offering once-daily dosing convenience.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically, one 75 mg sustained-release tablet once daily, preferably in the evening. Dosage may be adjusted based on response and tolerability. Do not exceed recommended dose.
Elderly
Use with caution due to increased susceptibility to anticholinergic side effects and sedation. Lower initial dose may be considered. Consult a doctor.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution. Dosage reduction may be necessary in severe renal impairment (CrCl <10 mL/min) due to reduced excretion. Consult a doctor.
How to Take
Take the tablet whole with water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet, as this may affect the sustained-release properties and lead to rapid absorption of a large dose. Can be taken with or without food.
Mechanism of Action
Pheniramine is a first-generation antihistamine that acts as a competitive H1-receptor antagonist. It blocks the action of histamine, a chemical mediator responsible for allergic symptoms like itching, sneezing, and watery eyes. Its anticholinergic effects also contribute to its drying action.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Onset of action for oral pheniramine is typically 30-60 minutes, but for sustained-release formulations, it might be slightly delayed with a prolonged duration of action.
Excretion
Excreted mainly via the kidneys as unchanged drug and metabolites.
Half life
Plasma half-life is approximately 10-19 hours, extended in sustained-release formulations, allowing for once-daily dosing.
Absorption
Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, though oral bioavailability can vary. Sustained-release formulation extends absorption time and maintains therapeutic levels for longer.
Metabolism
Primarily metabolized in the liver by various enzymatic pathways.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to pheniramine maleate or any component of the formulation
- Acute asthma attacks
- Narrow-angle glaucoma
- Prostatic hypertrophy with urinary retention
- Newborn or premature infants
- Concurrent use with MAO inhibitors (monoamine oxidase inhibitors)
Drug Interactions
MAO Inhibitors
Increased anticholinergic effects and prolonged sedative effects. Concurrent use is contraindicated.
Anticholinergic drugs (tricyclic antidepressants, atropine)
Potentiated anticholinergic effects (e.g., dry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention, constipation).
CNS Depressants (alcohol, sedatives, hypnotics, tranquilizers)
Increased sedative effects and CNS depression.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Overdose
Symptoms may include severe drowsiness, dizziness, ataxia, hallucinations, convulsions, dilated pupils, dry mouth, flushing, and fever. In children, CNS stimulation (excitement, restlessness) may be prominent. Management involves symptomatic and supportive care; gastric lavage or activated charcoal may be considered if recent ingestion.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Use only if clearly needed and after consulting a doctor, weighing the potential benefits against risks. Excreted in breast milk, avoid during breastfeeding or consult a doctor regarding potential effects on the infant.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to pheniramine maleate or any component of the formulation
- Acute asthma attacks
- Narrow-angle glaucoma
- Prostatic hypertrophy with urinary retention
- Newborn or premature infants
- Concurrent use with MAO inhibitors (monoamine oxidase inhibitors)
Drug Interactions
MAO Inhibitors
Increased anticholinergic effects and prolonged sedative effects. Concurrent use is contraindicated.
Anticholinergic drugs (tricyclic antidepressants, atropine)
Potentiated anticholinergic effects (e.g., dry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention, constipation).
CNS Depressants (alcohol, sedatives, hypnotics, tranquilizers)
Increased sedative effects and CNS depression.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Overdose
Symptoms may include severe drowsiness, dizziness, ataxia, hallucinations, convulsions, dilated pupils, dry mouth, flushing, and fever. In children, CNS stimulation (excitement, restlessness) may be prominent. Management involves symptomatic and supportive care; gastric lavage or activated charcoal may be considered if recent ingestion.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category B. Use only if clearly needed and after consulting a doctor, weighing the potential benefits against risks. Excreted in breast milk, avoid during breastfeeding or consult a doctor regarding potential effects on the infant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture. Always check the specific product label for the exact expiry date.
Availability
Pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory bodies
Patent Status
Expired/Generic available
Clinical Trials
Pheniramine maleate has been extensively studied for its antihistaminic effects, and clinical data supports its efficacy and safety for the symptomatic relief of allergic conditions, including in sustained-release formulations.
Lab Monitoring
- No specific routine lab monitoring is generally required for pheniramine maleate at therapeutic doses.
- Monitor renal and hepatic function in patients with pre-existing impairment, especially with prolonged use.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients on potential for significant drowsiness and caution against driving/operating machinery. The 'retard' formulation may still cause sedation.
- Review concomitant medications for potential interactions, especially CNS depressants (alcohol, sedatives) and MAOIs.
- Consider lower dose or alternative in elderly or renally impaired patients due to increased risk of side effects.
- Educate patients on anticholinergic side effects and measures to manage them (e.g., sugar-free lozenges for dry mouth).
Patient Guidelines
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you, due to potential drowsiness.
- Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants while taking this medicine.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, you are taking.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose (e.g., within 12 hours), skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
This medicine commonly causes drowsiness and may impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Exercise extreme caution and avoid such activities if you experience these effects.
Lifestyle Advice
- Identify and avoid exposure to known allergens that trigger your symptoms.
- Maintain adequate hydration, especially if experiencing dry mouth.
- Ensure proper sleep hygiene to mitigate potential drowsiness from the medication.
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